Even those who aren’t fans of arias should rejoice in the fact that when Opera San Jose closed the books on its 2006-07 season in the summer, it was its 23rd consecutive year in the black.

It’s really an applause worthy milestone, given the financial straits other arts companies are in and opera’s reputation as being too high-brow for mass audiences. And much of that applause must go to general director Irene Dalis, who has ably steered Opera San Jose’s ship since she founded it in 1984.

Dalis cites increased individual donations and ticket sales as helping keep the company in good financial shape while corporate and foundation donations have taken a dive.

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Irene Dalis knows how to make things work, that’s for sure. I’m grateful.